— It’s work…
— The most important thing is work…

This work is a redux of an ex-voto painted almost 10 years ago. The original text reads «To the ghost of Andy Warhol and the attitude of Lou Reed. Keep me on the straight and narrow path of hard work. As Alan Davie wrote to me [in 1997] “Magic (in art) comes from lots of hard work—No easy way!” 25th March 2007». The original work resides in Wellington, N.Z. in the Sweetman collection. The work is also important nod to the album “Songs for Drella” by Reed and John Cale, a huge influence.

Matthew Couper, Nov 3rd, MMXVI

To the Burdened Christ carrying his cross, I’ve set up my swear jar and a legend for how much each swear word costs. I guess this part of my New Year resolution along with getting fit by cycling in the morning.

2nd of January, 2007

— It’s work…
— The most important thing is work…

To the ghost of Andy Warhol and the attitude of Lou Reed. Keep me on the straight and narrow path of hard work. As Alan Davie wrote to me “Magic (in art) comes from lots of hard work—No easy way!”

25th March 2007

Para el Día de los Muertos. This ex-voto pays homage to my family and ancestors who passed away over many generations of Coupers and the families of my lineage. ( Until July this year, I was 6th generation New Zealander. ) In this ex-voto I use my pop’s prosthetic leg & my great-grandfather’s Rotherdam pocket-watch, one of only objects I brought with me to the USA.

1st & 2nd of November 2010